How Much Does Tigerwood Decking Cost?

Average Cost to Build a Tigerwood Deck

Tigerwood Decking Price Breakdown

The materials for a tigerwood deck typically cost $13 to $50 per square foot. 

Tigerwood costs around $7 to $15 per square foot, plus you'll need to account for other supplies, such as deck framing supplies, which cost an extra $2 to $10 per square foot. The supplies for the foundation also add to the cost of materials. Simple deck blocks, for example, can cost as little as $4 per square foot, while a poured concrete foundation may cost up to $25 per square foot. 

Tigerwood Decking Installation Costs

It generally costs $15 to $35 per square foot for the labor to install a tigerwood deck. While tigerwood is a dense exotic hardwood with a Janka hardness score of 2,160, it's still only considered moderately tough to work with. Therefore, as long as the decking contractor you hire has suitable carbide-tipped tools, it shouldn't take much more time to install than a standard wood deck. 

The Janka rating indicates the hardness, denseness, and durability of wood. For comparison, red oak only has a Janka hardness rating of 1,210, making Tigerwood 67% harder and more durable. 

Tigerwood Decking Cost by Size

The cost to build a deck depends on square footage. Extra features, such as steps, canopies, and individual foundation supports are added individually. 

Let's take a look at some of the common sizes of tigerwood decks and their average costs, without any extras. 

Cost to Install a Tigerwood Deck by Foundation Type

The type of foundation you need for your tigerwood deck varies based on the terrain, the type of deck you choose, and what you plan to do with the deck. And the type of foundation you choose determines how much you'll pay. For example, if you are building a deck on even, level ground and don't plan to do anything other than hang out and maybe fire up the barbecue, you can get away with inexpensive concrete deck blocks. However, if you plan to build a large deck and add a hot tub to it, you'll need to invest in poured concrete footings. 

Cost to Install a Tigerwood Deck by Type of Deck

Different types of decks require more materials per square foot, can be more time-consuming to put together, or require more labor. All of these things influence the total price you'll pay for your decking project.

Factors That Impact the Cost of Tigerwood Decking

Aside from the size and type of deck you're building, many other factors can impact the total price you'll pay for your tigerwood deck.

Permits

Permits can cost up to $500. The permits you'll need depend on the type of deck you're building and where you live. Permit requirements vary by state and municipality, so you'll need to check with your local planning office to see exactly what you need and how much it'll cost. Often, if you hire a local handyperson to build your deck, they'll take care of all the permitting as part of the job. 

Stairs

On average, expect to pay $15 to $50 per step if you need stairs going up to your deck. The price range varies so much because what you'll pay depends on the stair width, the size of each tread, the pitch, and the elevation. The price of deck stairs usually includes the cost of a handrail. 

Railings

Deck railings provide safety, particularly for a raised or multi-level deck, but they can be decorative, too, enhancing the appearance of the decked area. Deck railing installation is usually priced per linear foot, and the elements that influence that cost include the material you choose, the height of each panel, and any decorative additions you want to add.

Coverings

There are many types of coverings you can choose to add to your deck to let you use it whatever the weather. A deck covering generally costs $30 to $80 per square foot. Common options include pergolas, which can be made of tigerwood to match your deck, cast iron, vinyl-clad aluminum, or composite. The other option is a shingled roof, which is more weather resistant and durable but is also more expensive.

Repair and Maintenance

Although tigerwood is resistant to rot, mold, and other problems associated with cheaper woods, it still needs regular cleaning and maintenance to keep it in top condition. A local deck cleaning company can clean, sandblast, seal, and refinish your deck. Yearly or bi-yearly deck pressure washing costs $250 to $400. Sealing a tigerwood deck typically costs $1 to $4 per square foot and should be done yearly or every other year. While it doesn't technically need sealing, tigerwood will eventually fade to silver-gray without sealing with a UV-protective product.  

Total deck refinishing costs $600 to $1,400 and includes power washing, sandblasting, and sealing. 

DIY vs. Professional Tigerwood Decking Installation

Because tigerwood is hard and dense, installing it anywhere is best left to the professionals. Hire a reputable deck installation company to build your deck, as they'll have the appropriate tungsten carbide-tipped tools necessary for efficiently working with tigerwood. 

With professional installation, a deck can last for decades with minimal maintenance or repairs. And, with the cost of deck repairs ranging from $750 to $2,800, it's best to err on the side of caution and let a pro complete the build for you.

FAQs About Tigerwood Decking

Is tigerwood good for decking?

Yes, tigerwood is a great choice for decking because it's extremely durable and resistant to water, rot, mold, and decay. Plus, if you've got pets, you'll be glad to know that tigerwood is hard enough to resist scratching. It's attractive, too, and lasts for many years with just a little regular maintenance.

How long will tigerwood decking last?

Tigerwood decking can last up to 75 years in a temperate climate, assuming it receives regular care and attention. 

Do you have to seal tigerwood?

While you don't technically have to seal tigerwood, it's a good idea. A clear, UV-protective sealant helps to stop the wood fading from its beautiful, rich striped hue to a pale, uniform silver-gray. Plus, a good sealant helps to prevent pollen, dirt, and grime from getting caught in the wood grain.